Overview
Including the right information in your criminal justice reports depends on many things. It is important that you develop a habit of asking the right questions in order to collect the right information, taking detailed notes, and always keeping your information organized. You must ensure that the information you put in your reports is specific and accurate in order to ensure individuals are readily identified, that the facts regarding possible criminal activity lead to or show the necessary probable cause, and that any action by law enforcement during the incident or post-incident investigation does not violate anyone’s civil rights or constitutional protections.
Preparation
For this assignment, you will be taking on the role of the person assigned to prepare a Presentence Investigation (PSI) report by the judge on the case. Review the Presentence Investigation ReportLinks to an external site. (Client Information Packet), and as you read through the form, think about what the most essential information is that should be included, as well as who might use this report and why.
Instructions
To complete this assignment, use the information in the media activity, Preparing a Presentence Investigation ReportLinks to an external site. | TranscriptLinks to an external site., to complete the PSI report.
In the assignment area, answer the following questions, and then attach your completed PSI report.
Explain the purpose of the Pre-Sentence Investigation Report.
Include what the report would be used for and why it is needed.
Explain what part of the criminal justice system would use the information in your report, and how they would use the information.
Complete the PSI report, correctly identifying 45-50 key pieces of information, including where information was not provided.
Note: For any information that is not provided, indicate that in the report by using “n/a.”
This course requires the use of Strayer Writing Standards (SWS). The library is your home for SWS assistance, including citations and formatting. Please refer to the Library site for all support. Check with your professor for any additional instructions.
The specific course learning outcome associated with this assignment is:
Identify the most essential pieces of information that should be included in criminal justice reports.
Resources
Presentence Investigation ReportLinks to an external site. (Client Information Packet).
Preparation:
1.
https://www.nyep.uscourts.gov/forms/presentence/Client%20Information%20Packet%20-Supplement%20to%20Prob%201.pdf
Instructions:
https://media.capella.edu/coursemedia/sumid000215/wrapper.asp
